Te Aroha
for: Neve Te Aroha Ardern Gayford
Two months and three days;
It’s time I wrote a poem just for you.
So far I’ve only seen you
cuddly wrapped and wearing
your little green hat. On Facebook,
your Mum has shown a smidgen
of the lovely gifts sent your way.
Te Aroha, the country has said,
and respects your family’s
right to privacy.
Two months and three days.
We wait patiently for the release
of your first official photograph;
other than the one as a family
as you left hospital and went home
and your Mum took her dedicated
six weeks maternity leave. It can
be done. Prime Ministers can
take such leave same as any other.
Paternity, Maternity, working parents,
all need a time of leave.
But until that official photograph of you,
and because I am celebrating
one of the many good things
to come our way this year,
doing that, as always, through poetry –
Te Aroha National Poetry Day Aotearoa 2018
Our love for our country
Our love for poetry
Our love for family
Benita Helen Kape © 19.8.2018
benitakape 